In a nutshell
This study investigated whether there is an increased risk of death in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. They found that patients with uncontrolled hypertension have an increased risk of mortality overall. Patients with controlled hypertension has a risk similar to those without hypertension.
Some background
Uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure) has been linked to greater risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. It is unclear, however, if long-term uncontrolled hypertension is associated with increased mortality risk overall.
Methods & findings
This study investigated whether long-term uncontrolled hypertension is associated with increased mortality risk.
This study included almost 14,000 participants. These participants were grouped as either hypertensive and on medication (uncontrolled and controlled), hypertensive and untreated and ‘normotensive' (patients with normal blood pressure (BP). Patients were assessed at an average follow-up time of 19 years.
Patients with uncontrolled BP had a 60% greater risk of mortality overall compared to normotensive people. Uncontrolled hypertension was associated with greater risk of mortality due to cardiovascular disease (2.23-fold, heart disease (2.19-fold) and cerebrovascular disease (e.g. stroke, 3.01-fold). Patients with controlled hypertension did not differ from normotensive patients in terms of mortality risk.
The bottom line
This study concluded that patients with uncontrolled hypertension have an increased risk of mortality overall. Patients with controlled hypertension has a risk similar to those without hypertension.
The fine print
This study didn’t analyze some important information such as the type of medication patients used. However, it is clear that managing hypertension is very important to prevent complications.
What’s next?
If you have any concerns regarding blood pressure management please consult with your physician.
Published By :
Scientific reports
Date :
Jun 20, 2018
